HAPPINESS
“Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory.”—Dr. Albert Schweitzer
December is a month of celebration for many and for many it is a time of happiness; of gathering with family and friends, celebrating customs, the giving of gifts and, for some, just the preparation for the holidays brings happy feelings. That is, if we don’t let ourselves be controlled by expectations!
Did you know that older people are reported to have a higher level of contentment and well-being than young adults and teenagers? You may ask how this is possible, given that older adults have coped with the stressors of life, setbacks and losses throughout their lives. But, as we age, we usually aren’t stressing over a job or career path.
Admittedly, not all older adults are happy. Unhappiness can result from loss, changes, depression – all of which can impact health. But then again, older adults are not the only ones who may be unhappy.
During these past two calendar years, lives have changed significantly and it looks like we will be facing changes into the foreseeable future. So, what might we consider for adding to our happiness? What might we do to increase our happiness levels?
Giving a gift of yourself to anyone is always welcome and it doesn’t have to be for an extended time. A quick phone call, a text message or an email can be uplifting and let us not forget being old-fashioned with a card or a note sent by snail mail.
Sometimes, asking someone for some help, as insignificant as it may seem, might give them a good feeling of being valued.
Saying hello or engaging in a short conversation can brighten a stranger’s day.
How about learning something new? Doing something you have never done before?
And, the payoff; YOU just might experience a heightened level of happiness. And, you don’t have to wait to be “older” to experience the good feeling! It works for any age.
Whatever holiday you celebrate, may you experience much happiness. My best to you in 2022.
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